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[Xeen] Compendium 2 -November/December 1995
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Zephyr felt the crystal glowing from where they were and looked
down onto it.  Luckily he had just bought some new garb to where and
had burned that Mageguard robe that Thai gave him days ago.  No
point in anyone finding it near the Dragons Inn, that would draw
unwanted attention.

Suddenly, light began to gather around him and he felt his body
become discorporate.  He was beginning to travel, and he didn't know
where he was going................
--Joe Christl

The extra people and the hurry in which the spell had been cast changed the
dynamics dramatically. The group emerged not in the pyramid temple Thai used
for transport, but instead were falling, diving or rolling onto hard stone. 

Thai felt her spell warping and latched onto the most familiar place she knew
of. the extra power it took to make the transition between worlds drained
her severely and she fell hard onto the cold stone of the great hall of the
fortress in the mountains of Skejan.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Cari landed _hard_ on the marble tiled floor; the impact jarring a spiking 
headache that ran across her temples, nearly making her see double. When 
her vision cleared she saw that she was amongst a group of people, who 
were at the moment surrounded by _elves_ in Inquisitor uniforms, armed with
crossbows.

She waited till she could see straight again and began slowly glancing 
around. She found that she was laying near the warhorse that Zephyr had 
used to "rescue" her from the church, and that the renegade Mageguard 
himself wasn't too far away. 

She was surprised that she recognized some of the people in the captive 
group - the outlawed Deaconess Thai, the crippled Mageguard/healer she 
had seen in passing, and Jarrad. "Jarrad!" she sent, in hopes he might 
have an idea of what was occurring. The sending did nothing for her headache. 
Jaunting, even with its vertigo, she decided was easier than whatever 
landed her in this mess. 
--Cathy Mosley

	Draca landed harder than most.  Her added weight, coupled with her 
fully-folded wings and lack of reaction time, sent her crashing to the 
cobbles.  She would have tried to rise, but the damned 'crutch' still 
would not release her arm.  She gave up, and crawled to a somewhat 
'sheltered' spot, out of everyone's way.
--Margaret Tayti

Dryctor managed to cast a quick "feather fall" spell and land upright. He 
immediately went to the rest to see if anyone had suffered any broken 
bones. He saw Draca crawling away and called out to ask if there was 
anything he could do for her. She replied mentally that she would be fine 
with some rest.
--Barron C. Featherston

Jarrad fell a little, and rolled onto hard stone, instinctively taking 
the weight evenly, and avoiding anything more than bruises. A little 
blood was welling from his leg, it seemed like a graze, between the 
scabbard of his sword, and bone, but it would have to be checked.

Then several messages came at once, and he tried to get a look around and 
see what was going on.
--Paul Khangure

        *Jarrad*  Her thoughts were still fairly muddy, but the message 
got through.  *I will need to meditate _UNDISTURBED_ before I may be of 
any use to Strawberry.  I know of several 'Treatments' for the Bane, but
must regain my own faculties first.  Please see to it that _they_       
understand.* 
--Margaret Tayti

::I will:: Jarrad replied to Draca, as she began to go into some trance.
--Paul Khangure

She closed her eyes, concentrating on the very processes that 
governed her body's function, speeding some, slowing others.  Her entire 
body began glowing a faint, swirling, green and gold.  A sheen of 
perspiration became evident as her very pores began actively purging the 
herb from her system.  Those standing nearby could detect a definite and  
distinct whiff of Dragonsbane coming from her direction.
--Margaret Tayti

Then Cari called his name. "Cari?" he half muttered half thought in 
shock. ::What the ...::

He tried to get a look around, but the pain was beginning to get to him, 
his leg didn't seem to be working anymore.
--Paul Khangure

Thai raised her head to see if Jarrad was alright, then raised herself by
her arms to face Zeph. Another person and a rather large and extremely
familiar horse had appeared in the midst of the group along with a large
number of Zeph's Inquisitors and Legantors. Legantors?

Zeph's people were already back on their feet and armed Thai noticed.

A glint of approval bloomed and died in her eyes as she examined the woman
again.

::That was a good maneuver on your part. Portal's not an easy spell to hold
steady at the best of times. Whoever you are, I think there's been a
misunderstanding involved here, but before you do your job, may we tend our
wounded and would you please explain what you mean by calling that shadow
the servant of the Dragon-demon? I thought Xeen was dead a long time ago, or
is there a new one?:: Thai was confused and drained, but more interested in
Jarrad's health.

Shaitan tossed his head and looked to Thai for orders. She shook her head no
then risked a glance at Jarrad to see if he was alright still, but tried not
to let her concern show [forgetting that she was still linked to Zeph].
--Phaedra Whitlock

Dryctor then "sent" to Thai and Jarrad asking if they wanted 
him to globe the group to protect them from the church people. 
--Barron C. Featherston

Thai looked at Zeph. ::No. We're in no danger at the moment 
from the Church, but Draca is unable to fight and both Strawberry and 
Jarrad are injured, they need your clerical abilities more at the 
moment. See if you can find the cause of Strawberry's affliction while 
I bandage Jarrad.::

Thai whistled to her horse and it walked over to her side. 
Using the horse to pull herself upright Thai winced at the stab of 
pain in her ankle.

Pulling the hem of her dress away from her foot she looked, 
it was already swelling. She sighed and removed the saddlebags from 
Shaitan, dropping them next to Jarrad.

::How bad is it love? Do you know?::
--Phaedra Whitlock

::I don't. I think it is a graze, except I can't feel the leg anymore. 
That is not usually a good sign.::
--Paul Khangure

She glanced at Zeph, ::May I?:: At Zeph's nod a dagger appeared 
in her hand. ::Do you use poison on your bolts High Inquisitor?::

She sliced open Jarrad's pant leg and examined the wound. 
More blood welled out of the leg until Thai found the artery leading 
to his leg and pushed her thumb against it. From out of her pack she 
drew a roll of twine and a wooden rod. Lifting his leg slightly she 
slid the cord underneath and started set up a tourniquet. 

Not looking up she broadcast ::Could someone help me? I 
can't do this alone.::

Someone did and she prepared to remove the bolt. Jarrad 
looked pale, but nodded, the leg was becoming numbed.

Thai removed the crossbow bolt without making the wound too 
much worse, then sat back as Dryctor healed him.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Jarrad winced, and bit hard on the belt, as Thai removed the bolt. Then 
the shock of Dryctor's healing took over, the bones seeming to freeze, as 
flesh knitted itself together. When it was done, Jarrad flexed it 
slightly then sent straight to Dryctor and Thai alone,

::Thankyou. bandage it and pretend it isn't healed. I am going to use 
every advantage I can. Especially with him here.:: Jarrad nodded to 
Semareth whom he had just seen. ::It will also put any opponents at ease, 
confidence will kill them.::
--Paul Khangure

Jarrad squeezed her blood covered hand reassuringly and she 
smiled back.

That accomplished she surveyed the little camp taking note 
of the new arrivals and Zeph's placement of her people.
She couldn't be certain but Zeph had  probably detailed some 
to scout the fortress. The next move was Zeph's. 
--Phaedra Whitlock

[Draca] After what seemed a scant few minutes, (nearly half an hour) She 
opened her eyes, and tried once again to have her staff release her 
wrist, so that she could walk.  This time, success.  She was fairly 
unsteady, for self-healing always exerted a far greater toll, but there 
was no time for that to concern her.  She was uncertain of the dosage 
that Strawberry had inhaled, and concerned that he might in fact have 
overdosed.  Since the Elders used Dragonsbane for ceremonial purposes, 
she understood what needed to be done in order to help him, but, given 
his tenuous mental grasp, and lack of understanding of his nature, she 
had to be doubly careful.  If he were to remember too much, the 
consequences could be disastrous.

Examining him, she conjured a few herbs from her harp case, along 
with a mortar and pestle.  She crushed these, and added enough water to 
make a strong tincture, then heated it magically to the correct 
temperature.  She then propped Strawberry on her lap, (he hadn't 
overdosed, but the herbs would help detoxify his system faster) and 
poured it, one sip at a time, down his throat.  He would sleep one or two 
hours more, and wake feeling no ill effects.  

Her task complete, she took up her harp, and tried to regain some 
of her lost energy.  Later, she would tell Jarrad just how fortunate the 
elves were that Strawberry had not taken in an overdose, for she had a 
small quantity of Elfsbane... (not that she would have used it on anyone, 
but...)
--Margaret Tayti

Zephyr laid on the ground, hurt streaming all over his back.  Wherever
he came in to the coordinates happened to be a little off, as he must
have fell some odd 5 feet, although it felt like 50.  The horse whinnied
next to him and nosed him to see if he was okay.  Zephyr enjoyed the
attention, and was glad that the horse's personality wasn't at all like
her name stated.

He tried to turn over, but it hurt too much, so he just kicked his legs
some.  He also noticed that his breath hasn't returned yet, and he began
to feel like it had no intention of returning.  Zephyr turned his head to
the left and saw Cari, the girl he grabbed in the church courtyard
sitting a few feet away.  She was looking at Jarrad who apparently
was injured and being attended to by Thai.  As he saw this, Shaitan
left him and stood next to her side, seemingly glad to see her.

In fact, he noticed several people he recognized - Draca, he only seen
her in the church; and his pal Dryctor, whom he hasn't seen since he's
arrived at Montfort.  Draca was attending to a man with Strawberry
colored hair.  He then at this point noticed that they all were in the
company of several Elven Church Inquisitors. 

Zephyr's breathing began to finally return to him and he got up,
wincing at his hurt back, his vision clearing more.
--Joe Christl

Cari's attention was caught by movement off to her side. She glanced and 
saw that Zephyr was on his feet, though he was wincing as he moved. 

She was concerned about Jarrad. It looked like he had taken a bolt to the 
leg, but it was also apparent that he was being cared for. She was a 
little surprised that it was the ex-Deaconess that tended him so gently, 
but then, she decided, that may have why Thai was the ex-Deaconess. There 
had been rumors of Thai's activities, though most of the money had been 
on Semareth. Cari, who was his scribe, had doubted that he was a man of 
idle affairs. And she did know that Jarrad had been around the Church more 
than was healthy for a Refuser . . . "And who am I," she decided, "To say 
what is odd? Obviously Jarrad found his lady fair and won her. And I 
found that the High Inquisitor is a priest of a far different god than 
the Redeemer."

She eased herself to her feet, feeling queasy and stiff. And was grateful 
that when Zephyr had found himself a change of clothes he had 
obtained a tunic and trousers for her. As she stood she noticed that 
some of the Inquisitors had noted her movement, and she held her hands 
clear for them to see that she carried nothing. She gestured towards 
Zephyr and made her way towards the young man. "Are you alright?" she 
sent; her mental tone matter-of-fact. She wasn't sure what he had just 
landed her in, and he had obviously taken her farther from aiding Semareth.

What was confusing her, beyond the fact that the Inquisitors were elves, 
was that while they seemed wary, they obviously weren't being overtly 
hostile. "Are they elves disguising themselves as Inquisitors?" she 
wondered to herself. Then turned cool eyes back to Zephyr, trying to 
access how much damage he had taken.
--Cathy Mosley

Semareth finished penning his own note to Proctor John (where was Cari 
when he needed real notes to be taken?) and dropped his quill back in the 
case. Sealing the letter, he handed it to the messenger boy who waited 
nearby.
As the boy left the room with the confirmation that all possible was 
being done to fulfill Proctor john's "requests", he looked at the small 
shrine near his bed, and sighed. It was a slow duty, converting an entire 
church.
Suddenly, the sounds of bedlam in the courtyard startled him from his 
thoughts. Grabbing his sword and cloak, he bolted out his door.
---
He arrived on the parapets just in time to see the man dressed as a 
mageguard riding off into the city with Cari in his arms. While 
Inquisitors milled around chaotically beneath him, Semareth stood 
silently, arms folded, and watched the man ride haphazardly through the 
city. The wind whipped at his cloak, but he remained until all sight of 
the intruder was gone.
Then with a smile, he left.
----
It took him the best part of an hour to track Zephyr and Cari to the inn. 
It would have been more had his 'contacts' not been talkative. He grinned 
wolfishly beneath his gray hooded cloak. Of course, talkative was a 
function of intimidation.
He stood quietly across the street from the inn. It would be best not to 
go in. Too much risk of being recognized. Besides, he already knew of 
their disappearance.
-----
Klimora sat elegantly on her cushion, awaiting the dark stranger. She 
adjusted her shawl, and arranged her skirts around her neatly.
She had not waited long when the door swung open, to admit a dark, tall 
man. He stopped just inside the doorway, and looked around slowly. 
Incense snaked around his ankles, and slithered out the door as it slowly 
closed on oiled hinges.
She smiled from behind her veil.
"Welcome, follower of Sh'al. Please, sit.", she beckoned to the cushion 
opposite her. 
The man lowered himself into a sitting position on the cushion, bringing 
himself into the dim light radiating from the embers between them. She 
raised an eyebrow appreciatively, and also calculatedly.
He merely looked at her, and waited.
"I can give you the answers you seek, northman.", she whispered, though 
her voice was clear and melodic.
He nodded.
"Sh'al would not have led me here if you could not."
She was used to this kind of firmness of faith. But something in the 
timbre of his voice carried a much deeper conviction than she cared to 
look into. She decided to begin.
"You seek a man and a woman... and perhaps more."
He nodded again, the dim light barely penetrating the darkness of his cloak.
Realizing he needed no proof of her abilities, she decided to settle payment.
"I will need a gem.", she smiled slightly, expectantly.
------
Semareth paused. Had he a gem?
He reached into his belt pouch, and drew out the small green crystal.
He held it out on his palm for her to see.
"Ahhh," she breathed, leaning forward such that even her copious garments 
became revealing, "how did you come by such a fine gem?" she asked. 
Then he remembered. Thai had given him the crystal, on the day when...
-------
As Klimora reached out for the crystal, a green glow began to emanate 
from it. Her eyes widened. Daring her hand closer, she noticed her 
enchanted rings and bracelets glowing discordantly.
She began to wrap her delicate fingers around the crystal, and the green 
glow turn into a blinding glare.
She cried out, yanked her hand back and covered her eyes.
When she dared to look again, the man was gone.
--------
Semareth gasped as the world seemed to shift around him in an oddly 
gut-churning manner. The embers before him seemed to become spitting 
volcanoes, and he felt their heat engulf him as he watched Klimora cringe 
back in a slow-motion parody. Then there was nothing.
---------
He staggered as reality came rushing back in on all sides, and he fell to 
his knees, clutching his sides. His head pounded and his body felt as if 
skewered by hot pokers.
Then all the pain was gone.
He stood, breathed deeply of cold air, and looked around.
--Nick Takayama

From his prone position, Strawberry finally met consciousness, although
be it slight. Turning his head, he was just able to see Semareth's 
sudden entrance upon the scene. He recognized the man, not instantly,
but when his mind was finally capable of matching the face to a piece
of memory, his eyes rolled to the back of his head and he was out like
a light.
--Dave Smart

::Semareth?::

Thai shook her red braid back over her shoulder and took in the sight 
of Zephyr and Cari as well. To all of them she sent, ::Are you all 
right? You've arrived in a gateway in another plane from Montfort.
These,:: she nodded to the elves and Zephillia, ::are the High 
Inquisitor Zephillia Elessidel's troops. They have arrested us for 
questioning. A dragon then attacked and we portalled to here, where 
I think in the process of rescuing our respective people, I may 
have brought you into my quest as well.::

She smiled. ::According to the High Inquisitor, Proctor John 
died on her cousin's sword 80 years ago, which means we are also 100 
years in the future, where we,:: she nodded to her companions, ::hope 
to find a weapon that will kill Proctor John a bit earlier.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Zephyr absentmindedly put his arm around Cari, looking for some
support.  His back was killing him, and he hoped that it wasn't too
bad.  He noticed that she had been looking to Jarrad as if she knew the
man more than just someone who had been at the church.

He walked over to Dryctor, leading Cari over to him.  He hoped that
she wasn't carrying too much of a load from him, but nonetheless still
appreciated what caring she was showing.  She looked young, yet he
could tell she was overflowing with maturity.  "Dryctor, old friend, it
has been a long time since we've last talked."  He extended a hand to
shake, but canceled as he was busy with Jarrad.

"Cari, your mentor has arrived.  Please keep him from killing me, as it
would be quite easy right now," he winced as he turned toward
Semarerth.  "Make him understand why I stole you away from him."

He then bowed his head in Thai's direction, "Thai, it is good to see
you again.  How is Jarrad doing?"
--Joe Christl

Worry showed in her eyes. ::I think he'll be fine now.:: She then 
smiled, ::Thank you Zephyr. And thank you for rescuing Shaitan. I 
couldn't bear the thought of some Inquisitor mistreating him.::

Jarrad moved slightly and she returned her attention to him, 
lightly kissing each knuckle on the hand she held before she 
gently enfolded it in hers.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Jarrad was extremely happy to lie there, and wouldn't mind trading 
another bolt for it to continue.
::That makes it better, keep doing it:: he sent with a mental grin, 
carrying a little impudence with it too.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Thai played to the crowd by letting her eyes mist with tears of seeming 
concern. ::You're horrible, and unless you plan to jaunt us upstairs to 
our bedroom I have work to do.:: 

She placed his hand back on his leg and bent forward to kiss him on 
the forehead. A wave of lilacs and lilies of the valley swept over 
him as she did so, then retreated as she stood. ::Strategy indeed. 
Youre just being lazy so you can lie around all day.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

::You are more than welcome to lie around all day with me ... :: came the 
reply from Jarrad.
--Paul Khangure

Thai laughed at his rejoinder and looked around her to see what the others 
were up to.
--Phaedra Whitlock

As soon as Jarrad was healed Dryctor turned to greet Zephyr, He saw the 
look of pain on his face and the way he was leaning on the woman with him 
(Dry does not know Cari yet) And was at his side in an instant getting 
him to lie down. He then called upon Corellon again and felt his god's 
healing power flow through him into Zephyr repairing any torn tendons, 
ripped muscles & bruised & cracked ribs.

Once finished with that Dryctor asked if there was anyone else in need of 
healing.
--Barron C. Featherston

With more magical healing administered by Draca, Strawberry came to once 
again and was quickly asked not to pass out again. He obeyed. Soon he was 
well enough to stand up on his own two feet, although nausea and fatigue
continued to nip at him. 

Once confidence was restored in his own health, he began to take note of
his surroundings. The place seamed foreign enough, but the people around
him, although not folk he knew well, were confirmed to be friends. That is 
until he spied Semareth again. He did not faint dead again, but simply coward 
behind Dryctor, remembering him to be one who possessed great magics and 
skill. Then with pointed finger, he asked: "what is he doing here?" And 
then finally noticing the elves in Inquisitor uniform he pointed at them, 
"and...and who are they?" To say the least, his face painted a picture of 
fear, until his wide eyes came across Zeph.

She still possessed certain qualities she had as a child so many years
ago, which were mere days to poor Strawberry. He could not help
remark the resemblance the now full grown woman had with a child he had
witness rescue an elf at the dreaded cleansing. Zeph nodded, "it is I...the
same girl you saw in Montfort so many years ago. Then, I was a simple child,
out to rescue my cousin Eldarion. If I had only known what I now know today, 
perhaps I would have purposely failed in the attempt. For it is *he* and he 
alone, who is responsible for the death of not only the lands known as 
Tynntangial, but my cousin Elana. She and Tynntangial will be *avenged*!"

She then turned to Thai and with her mind, whispered, "In this time and
place, we are not enemies...I can see that now. You ask of the dragon
Xeen. He is who you seek and it is his pet Dardt that hunts us now in the 
place we ported from." Those last words spoken, a bitter tear was shaken
loose, for she new the count of her men was low and those left behind
had surly perished. But it was no time to blame Thai for that. It was time
to gather strength, perhaps from these transients of time, and turn the
tables so that the hunter became the hunted.

Again to Thai's mind, she whispered: "Can I speak to you in private? We
must talk."
--Dave Smart

The ex-Deaconess nodded and sent to Zeph, ::Yes, we must. 
A moment please, and then I will take you to the battlements.::

She glanced down at Jarrad then pointedly at Semareth. She 
sent to both of them ::No fighting, either of you. Understood? 
Whether you like it or not you are both exiles and allies until we 
return home, and much as I care for you both, I won't hesitate to 
punish the first person who causes trouble.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

::Promises promises? I look forward to it::
Standing, Jarrad winced upon putting weight on his leg, and limped 
around, testing it.
--Paul Khangure

Thai succeeded in not smiling, much. ::I know you do darling. Later, 
I have work to do.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

::You keep saying that, Can you keep me in the link to hear what is going 
on?::
--Paul Khangure

::No. I'm afraid the wards were built directly into the stones of this citadel.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Encompassing all three of the newcomers in her gaze she 
continued with a general sending.

::Jarrad, perhaps you should explain further what brought 
US here, and then they can decide whether they wish to return, to 
await us here, or to accompany us.::

::Dryctor, according to the High Inquisitor your god has no 
influence in her world. Before we return there it might be best to 
see if your clerical powers will function still. Zephyr will need 
to be apprised of the portal spells I showed you and Draca, and also, 
the elves are not dressed for this climate. If we are to stay here 
long, you will be the best to see to their comfort.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Corellon Larethian may have been forgotten in this world but he still 
reigns over the elven pantheon. I can still feel his presence and as my 
healing of Jarrad and Zephyr shows his power still reaches to me. 
Remember My connection to him comes through Sanctum just as my magic does. 
Corellon would need to be over thrown there to cut off my connection. I 
will show Zephyr how to use the portal spells, It will probably be easier 
for him then for me as his magic comes from this plane while mine does 
not. I will also see if I can come up with something for them to wear. 
Though Semareth may be a bit difficult, he's even taller then I am!
--Barron C. Featherston

She hoped he realized that with Jarrad wounded, he and 
Zephyr were now the most powerful defenders of the group should 
Dardt follow her magical trail to this place.

Sweeping the cold hall with her eyes and seeing no other 
immediate problems now that Strawberry had awakened under Draca's 
care, Thai nodded at Zephillia. ::The halls are drafty here, if 
you are cold tell me.::

The High Inquisitor fell in beside Thai as the taller woman 
shrugged her fur-lined cloak back over her shoulders and held it 
closed with one gloved hand, proceeding slowly and painfully up a 
wide flight of low steps curving up and away into the shadows.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Noticing the legantors who were still holding crossbows, with bolts 
loaded, Jarrad decided to prevent that particular incident from reoccuring.

With a psionic twist, he put a small trace on each bolt, and a matching 
trace on the people in the group, with the exception of Semareth. If the 
botls were fired, they would not go near anyone with the trace. Likewise, 
he treated the bolts in the guards supply.

As Thai and Zephillia left, Jarrad took a good look at teh room, then said,
"We are here to obtain the sword of Xeen, the one sure thing that will 
kill Proctor John. Any questions?"

He waited to see what the response would be, pointedly ignoring eye 
contact with Semareth, but giving the others, with the exception of  the 
guards, a smile or wink.
--Paul Khangure

As they talked Zephyr watched Cari and Semareth talking over against the
wall.  He found jealousy rising inside him, and could not believe that
he was feeling this.  He knew, to an extent, that those two weren't
involved, but he still felt something that he couldn't quite pin down. 
He continued to watch Cari smile while she sat next to Semareth,
talking about what had happened recently.  In a way, he wished that he
was Semareth, that way he would be the one that she would be
interested in.  Cari looked over to him, and Zephyr smiled to her.
--Joe Christl

Cari smiled back at Zephyr and returned to "talking" with Semareth. She 
had felt Zephyr's attention on her for a little while, and wondered at 
it. But now she more wondered at the news of a weapon against Proctor 
John, and if Lord Semareth would be willing to take up such a quest. With 
all her heart she wanted on such a quest, though her expression did not 
betray her desire, but it left little room for ponderings about Zephyr. 
Only Semareth, because she was hard put to keep her emotions from 
shadowing her thoughts to him, knew.
--Cathy Mosley

He watched as Thai got up from Jarrad's side and go off with
Zephillia to talk about whatever.  Remembering what she had said
about being the strongest members right now, Zephyr pried his eyes
away from Cari and started to patrol the area.
--Joe Christl

Clinging, much like a baby orangutan does its mother, Strawberry
held onto Dryctor (hope I'm not being to much of a pain) as he paced
the confines of the room. "What is it Strawberry?" a slightly irritated
Dryctor asked.

"Begging your pardon. I understand that Thai was once Deacon to the church, 
but now sides with us...in fact leads us. But what of him?" Strawberry 
asked with a nod of the head in Semareth's and Cari's direction. "I mean to 
ask: can they be trusted?"

Strawberry, a man not one of a suspicious or malevolent temperament, waited
an answer nervously. He was out of sorts to say the least and the huge 
Inquisitor presence made life no easier. The only thing keeping him 
somewhat together was the fact that Draca was nearby.
--Dave Smart

Once away from the others Thai's strongly beautiful face 
reflected her concerns. ::We came looking for Eldarion and the 
sword, intending to steal it and return home. I was then going to 
assassinate Proctor John if I could and stop his domination of 
Montfort before it was too late. Jarrad and I learned of the Swords 
from Eldarion one night as we talked in the woods, but we didn't 
stop to think about what kind of world the future Sword would exist 
in... I still intend to take the Sword if I can, but you saved our 
lives and I am grateful.::

The pair emerged onto the rooftop and Thai gratefully sank 
down onto a carved stone block. ::We are now alone. The defenses of 
this fortress are imbedded into the stones themselves, and from here 
we should be able to see anyone or anything else that chooses to 
spy on us.::

::What do you wish?::
--Phaedra Whitlock

When she finally came to terms with the fact that Thai was
speaking (figuratively) the truth (there were no spies to be 
detected by Zeph's magic) she turned to look out across the 
openness beyond the roof top. It was marvellous. No blackened 
rubble to be seen in any direction. It was a sea of calmness and 
beauty. With a sigh she turned to meet Thai's gaze. "As I have 
stated before...the good (said with a sarcastic chuckle) Proctor 
has been dead for some time now. It is the man...or should I say, 
the monster who you now seek that should be *feared*". 
--Dave Smart

The glorious mountain scenery was not lost on Thai even though she 
listened carefully to the High Inquisitor's words.

Her repeated mention of Proctor John's passing raised a feeling of 
unease within Thai as it had before. Even in his rage, Proctor John 
had been honest with her, and to his evil dark guard nature. It was 
she that had betrayed him, not the other way around. 

Thai's complete attention fixated on Zephillia as she waited for the 
information she needed to continue her quest. 

Zephillia obviously expected some reaction to her sarcastic display 
of hatred, but Thai had none. She would not defend Proctor John to 
enemies who could not understand, and she had died in torment too 
many times to fear Eldarion. 
--Phaedra Whitlock

Taking only 
the time required to gauge Thai's reaction to her speech, she 
continued. "Proctor John and his like were but sweet babes with 
white fluffy wings compared to the re-incarnate Dragon-Xeen, who we 
now face today." With a step towards Thai she asked: "Are you up to 
the task of facing off with my cousin for the mere prize of his 
cursed sword?"
--Dave Smart

Thai kept her calm but it was not easy to let the implied slur pass 
by.

::High Inquisitor, don't try to play games with me. If I thought I 
was not ready I would not be here now. I lack the necessary 
information on Eldarion and the Sword, but that is all. Once I have 
that information, then I will know if I am prepared and what I yet 
need to do.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Zeph's gentle features (minus her eye-patch and accompanying scar) turned
hard as stone. Chiseled. The smile evaporated like cold water under a 
desert sun. Her scar turned from a light pink to blazing red.

"*Games*," she bellowed angrily. "There's nothing left of my world *but*
games. And as it *stands*, it is my cousin who is the *Game Master*." 
Regaining her earlier composure, she lightened, straightened her tunic
and then took a breath. "You are ignorant of our time and our despair. 
This is understandable and thus forgivable. I will furnish you with what 
information you ask of me, so be it within my powers to do so." She stared 
deep into Thai's eyes. "Can I use this woman as an ally," she wondered.
"She has resolve to say the least."

Speaking again she continued, "All I ask in return is that you swear 
allegiance to me and my surviving people. Together...perhaps we can
reach both our goals. You the possession of the sword of Xeen. Myself,
the destruction of the monster who now wields it. What say you?" 
--Dave Smart

Thai studied Zephs hard features and then turned her attention 
to the unchanging peaks around her. Her anger melted away as her 
eyes roamed the familiar scenery.

Inwardly she wondered how far Zephillia would go to meet her goal, 
and rather thought the girl would sacrifice anyone if she thought it 
would bring her Eldarion's death.

Surely Zephillia knew that anyone possessing the Sword of Xeen would 
be potential danger as great as Eldarion now was. Would she give 
up the Sword? Thai thought not, but they had to begin somewhere and 
Thai needed her.

Her face clouded with the pain of memories. 

::I think you will need to understand me a little. After your 
friends escaped that night, I captured one of those aiding 
your escape. We talked he and I, and he refused to give in to
the Redeemer. Something happened between us and for love of 
him I turned my back on the Church to work with him towards its 
downfall. I was caught and Proctor John tortured and killed me, 
several times, each time in a new way more horrible to contemplate 
than the last. I find it had to believe there could be anything 
worse than what I went through Zephillia, but you do and I think I 
believe you somehow.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Thai's words bounced listlessly within the chambers of Zeph's mind. 
A chord was struck sound and distant memories sprung. It had been
when she was still a child and for unknown reasons to this day, she
realized her father had been killed by Eldarion in battle. A clash 
between nephew and uncle and the swords of Xeen. Eldarion had been
victorious that day as it would  be until all the holders of the 
swords would perish. It was true that her father had fought on the 
side of darkness that sad day and now it was clear what force had 
turned her father. How Thai had survived Proctor John's assault, 
caught Zeph off guard. "This woman is more than what meets the eye." 
she thought.
--Dave Smart

::I still love him, despite the Proctor's attempted conversion, 
and it is for him that I came. He will fight the Church until 
either it is gone from Montfort or he is, and I cannot ask him 
to do otherwise.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Zeph nodded, then turned to gaze out at the surrounding mountains
as Thai continued.
--Dave Smart

::Zephillia, I cannot swear allegiance to your people. I can swear 
to do all in my power to assist you in destroying Eldarion, and I 
can pledge to save as many of your people as I can in so doing, but 
my loyalties will always remain with him. His wishes are my command 
and I cannot pretend otherwise. I have only one question, and I feel 
we must be honest if we are to trust one another and make this 
work...::

::Do not take offense. I ask only out of necessity. Do you seek 
your cousin's death out of revenge, or for your people's sake? 
Whether the one or the other makes little difference to me, but 
it will affect our planning.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

She whirled around, her hair waved in the setting light of the sun
and caught fire. "Revenge," she said. "Yes, if it means survival."
--Dave Smart

::Is it enough or do you want more? I would do anything for him. 
If you cannot deal with me, convince Jarrad, and I will do as you 
say.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

"Your terms are admirable and acceptable." Then Zeph took a moment 
to reflect. Finally. "Jarrad...you love this man."
The word 'love' rolled awkwardly off of her tongue. "I will speak
with him, but I truly believe we can close our stand here and now.
Alone."

It had become clear to Zeph within the text of their short time
together on the roof that Thai was a woman of great conviction
and loyalty. Her mind was made. Some sort of allegiance had to be 
made here. After all these years of fighting Eldarion, a little help
could go a long way. "In general," Zeph said. "I believe we seek 
ultimately the same goals. Perhaps we should join council with the 
others and see what they have to say. Can I count on your support?"
--Dave Smart

::There is the question of the Church you serve. The others will not 
like working with you, legantors and elves or no. I will talk to 
them but it will not be easy.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Zeph appreciated the mage's candor.
--Dave Smart

Thai removed her gloves, then extended a hand to Zeph that the 
alliance be sealed.
--Phaedra Whitlock

She took her hand in hers. Done. 
--Dave Smart

::I would be honored to assist you, but before we go there is one 
other thing..::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Zeph left eyebrow raised questioningly.
--Dave Smart

Taking a green crystal from somewhere within her cloak she cracked 
it in two, then magicked the halves to be whole once more.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Ahhhh, a gift. She took it gladly. She felt the power within it 
immediately. There was no trace of malevolence tainting the green
crystal. Zeph suddenly wished she had something to give Thai, but
regrettably possessed nothing. 
--Dave Smart

::For you. Thanks to Proctor John I cannot speak, and using these 
makes it easier for me to converse with less effort.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

::Thank you. It would seem as though it is working quite well.::
--Dave Smart

She neglected to mention certain other things the crystals did, it 
was time to rejoin the others.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Zeph followed Thai back whence they had come. It was time to council
the others.
--Dave Smart



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           "There must be no tears, no goodbyes, no regrets.
            Just go forward in all your beliefs, and prove to
            me that I am not mistaken in mine." -- W. Hartnell
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